HTX-BAY: Impact 10/24/2025

More than a year after design plans were formulated for drainage improvements on Kemah near Hwy. 146, the city has broken ground on a major project to upgrade the city’s drainage infrastructure and reduce flooding as the city grows.

The details: The city held a groundbreaking ceremony for the drainage improvement project at the intersection of Seventh Street and Carolyn Street on Oct. 23, according to a news release.

Papichulo Mexican Grill opened its doors at the beginning of October, an employee with the restaurant said.

What they offer: The restaurant offers enchilads, fajitas, nacho platters, tacos, and chicken, steak and seafood specialties, according to the restaurant's website. The restaurant also features a bar with handcrafted margaritas, Mexican and craft beers, and a variety of specialty cocktails.

📍 111 W. Bay Area Blvd., Webster

New laws restricting or banning panhandling and vendors along roadways may be coming to unincorporated Harris County in light of a state bill that went into effect Sept. 1.

The overview: In May, Texas lawmakers passed House Bill 2012, which allows counties to curb roadside and parking lot soliciting. The bill permits restrictions on people asking for money or selling food or merchandise, including animals, along roadways.

The details: During Harris County Commissioner Court's Oct. 16 meeting, Precinct 3 Commissioner Tom Ramsey asked the county attorney to work with court offices to draft an ordinance, which could include the following:

• Clear prohibitions on panhandling that affects traffic lanes, medians and other areas that pose safety risks
• Improves traffic flow and quality of life by creating designated safety zones away from busy traffic
• Minimizes disruption to daily commutes
• Enhances the overall community environment in unincorporated areas
• Fosters a more orderly public space without impeding individual rights

Harris County Public Health officials announced the launch of an online, public dashboard aimed at informing the community about human cases of mosquito-borne diseases.

Explained: As of Oct. 16, at least 192 positive mosquito samples across the county have been identified. Throughout the year, HCPH’s mosquito and vector control department officials track, test, and eliminate disease-carrying mosquitoes in the county, according to an Oct. 17 news release.

A closer look: In 2025, HCPH confirmed West Nile virus in the northern section of the county including parts of Tomball, Spring, Humble, Cypress, Katy and Kingwood.

Quote of note: Jennifer Kiger, director of the county’s office of epidemiology, surveillance and emerging diseases department, said in a news release the new dashboard is for residents to stay informed about potential mosquito-borne diseases in Harris County.

“While our current case numbers are low, it’s still important for everyone to protect themselves from mosquito bites—especially during the warmer months when mosquitoes are most active,” Kiger said.